Working in a fast-paced work environment such as healthcare is bound to cause you to lack some energy. It’s important to take care of yourself making sure you have a healthy balance between work life and self-care. Taking care of yourself every day is so important for keeping your energy levels up, stress levels down making you feel the best you can. 

The day-to-day work schedule in healthcare has become overwhelming. There has been numerous staff shortages meaning that others have to continuously take on others shifts, draining them of energy. Staff then feel the pressure leading them into a never-ending loop of sleep-work-sleep-work, leaving them drained and exhausted. If you feel trapped in such a spiral, then it’s likely you often come to work in a dreadful mood.

Below you will find a few tips that show you how to keep your energy up throughout the day allowing you to complete all that you need to:

1. Stay hydrated-

Two litres of water a day is the recommended amount. If your body is short of liquids, one of the first signs you will feel is the feeling of fatigue. It is essential for keeping you feeling alert, after all our bodies are made up of mostly water. So, aiming for a glass of water every hour throughout the day will help keep you hydrated.

2. Eat healthily-

It’s important to eat foods that give you plenty of energy especially in a fast-paced line of work. You should always remember to eat breakfast as it kick-starts the day.  Also, throughout the day on any lunch or breaks you should eat healthy snacks for regular energy boosts. Make sure to include some protein and fats such as nuts and avocado, plus fresh vegetables, and fruits as this can help to keep your energy balanced. Try to avoid high-calorie boosters that tend to cause an energy slump soon afterwards, like chocolate and crisps.

3. Get plenty of rest-

It is really important to get a good night’s rest. If you find it hard to sleep, try turning your devices off as this can help you to fall sleep. A lack of sleep is bad for your work and health. If you have a long enough break, try and sneak in a nap at work. Yes, even a short power nap can keep you productive and awake. You must make a conscious effort to ensure you get good quality rest daily.

4. Manage your time effectively-

Work Smarter, Not Harder using your time efficiently. Try to plan out and organise your day, and this way you can tick things off your to-do-list.

In addition to this try and lighten your load. One of the main reasons for fatigue is overworking. Overworking can include professional and family obligations. Make an attempt to set your priorities in terms of ranking the most important task, to the least important tasks. If you’re struggling with work, consider asking for extra help or maybe even time off or shorter hours. Creating routines helps with productivity.

5. Include movement and exercise within your day-

Getting frequent movement and exercise is one of the best ways to stay healthy and energetic. Any type of exercise such as walking, running, swimming and dancing etc. gives you a better chance of sleep and it helps elevate your mood overall allowing your mental health to improve.

6. Think positively-

Don’t let your mind be overpowered by negative things or situations, instead think positive and focus on the best you want out of life. For example, you may have friends at work, and these are the people that can help take the stress and pressure off you. As long as you keep yourself from getting distracted, work friends can be a great support system and keep your morals high.  As well as this, instead of thinking of your workload, think of what you will achieve at the end of the day and how proud you will be for doing it.

7.  Take a breather-

When you get a chance to take a break from what you’re doing, step outside and take a few long deep breaths in the fresh air. This will refresh and relax you. If you can do this throughout the day you will notice the calming and energising effects, it creates. This will help clear the mind and lower your stress levels.

All these tips help boost energy levels allowing you to perform to the best of your abilities in your line of work. If you are looking for extra support, you can talk to your employer, GP and there are also helplines available for people struggling with their mental health.